Abstract: A shoveling implement includes an elongate handle which may be pivotally attached to a shovelhead having at least two blade faces. The shovelhead may be configured so that the blade faces always remain at a fixed angle to the ground, or may be designed as a combination scoop and pusher shovel, with either blade being utilized by rotating the handle 180 degrees.

Abstract: A shoveling implement includes an elongate handle which may be pivotally attached to a shovelhead having at least two blade faces. The shovelhead may be configured so that the blade faces always remain at a fixed angle to the ground, or may be designed as a combination scoop and pusher shovel, with either blade being utilized by rotating the handle 180 degrees.

Abstract: A structure with extensible/retractable panels, which provides variable surface area for items such as headgear brims, furniture tops, etc., includes a first panel, a second panel pivotally mounted to the first panel, and a third panel pivotally mounted to the first panel. The second and third panels are rotatable from a retracted position in which the second and third panels are positioned underneath the first panel, and a deployed position in which the second and third panels extend beyond both the length and width of the first panel.

Abstract: A structure with extensible/retractable panels, which provides variable surface area for items such as headgear brims, furniture tops, etc., includes a first panel, a second panel pivotally mounted to the first panel, and a third panel pivotally mounted to the first panel. The second and third panels are rotatable from a retracted position in which the second and third panels are positioned underneath the first panel, and a deployed position in which the second and third panels extend beyond both the length and width of the first panel.

Abstract: A combination rake and material-spreading tool includes an elongate handle, a raking implement attached to an end of the handle, and a material-spreading implement. The material-spreading implement includes a substantially continuous plate that is moveable between a retracted position in which the material-spreading implement exposes the rake tines for normal raking operations and a fully deployed position in which the material-spreading implement is positioned with a lower edge of the substantially continuous plate positioned proximate distal free ends of the tines. An actuator is mounted on the handle, and a mechanical linkage operably connects the actuator with the material-spreading implement, whereby positioning of the material-spreading implement is achieved by manipulation of the actuator.

Abstract: A device for preventing food splatter during microwave cooking includes a sheet of material capable of maintaining a crease, and which has at least one crease that extends across the sheet. The device is positioned over a food disposed on an open dish with the crease extending across the dish and with the crease being at an apex of the sheet while the food is heated in a microwave oven. The invention provides a convenient, easy to use and inexpensive device and method for preventing food splatter during microwave cooking of food in an open container such as a plate or bowl.

Abstract: A combination rake and material-spreading tool includes an elongate handle, a raking implement attached to an end of the handle, and a material-spreading implement. The material-spreading implement includes a substantially continuous plate that is moveable between a retracted position in which the material-spreading implement exposes the rake tines for normal raking operations and a fully deployed position in which the material-spreading implement is positioned with a lower edge of the substantially continuous plate positioned proximate distal free ends of the tines. An actuator is mounted on the handle, and a mechanical linkage operably connects the actuator with the material-spreading implement, whereby positioning of the material-spreading implement is achieved by manipulation of the actuator.